Patient Guide · Antenatal Care
Antenatal Checkups & Pregnancy Scans in Johor Bahru: What to Expect
A step-by-step guide to antenatal care at Dr Wen Clinic in Bukit Indah — from your first positive test through your third-trimester 5D scan. Written to answer the questions expectant mothers in Johor Bahru and Singapore ask us most.
1. Your first antenatal visit
Book your first visit as soon as you have a positive urine pregnancy test — ideally between 6 and 10 weeks. At this booking visit we will:
- Confirm the pregnancy with a transvaginal or abdominal ultrasound and date it accurately.
- Take a full medical, obstetric and family history, and review any existing medications.
- Check blood pressure, weight and BMI, and start you on folic acid if not already taking it.
- Arrange baseline blood tests: full blood count, blood group, thalassaemia screen, hepatitis B, HIV, syphilis, rubella, and thyroid where indicated.
- Discuss NIPT and first-trimester screening options.
Consultations are conducted by female doctors, in English, Bahasa Malaysia or Mandarin. Bring your spouse if you'd like — they are welcome in the scan room.
2. Antenatal schedule by trimester
A straightforward, healthy pregnancy typically follows this rhythm of visits at our OG clinic in Bukit Indah:
| Trimester | Visits | Key checks |
|---|---|---|
| 1st (up to 13 weeks) | Every 4 weeks | Dating scan, booking bloods, NIPT counselling |
| 2nd (14–27 weeks) | Every 4 weeks | Fetal anomaly scan at 20–22 weeks, glucose screen at 24–28 weeks |
| 3rd (28–36 weeks) | Every 2 weeks | Growth scan, 5D scan, GBS swab, positioning |
| Late 3rd (37+ weeks) | Weekly | CTG, birth planning, hospital referral |
3. Pregnancy scans: 2D, 3D and 5D
Ultrasound is safe throughout pregnancy and is our main window into how baby is growing. Here's what each type is used for:
2D scan
The medical workhorse — used at every visit to check the heartbeat, growth, amniotic fluid, placenta and fetal anatomy.
3D scan
Adds volumetric imaging for a still, sculpted view of baby's face and body — useful for reassurance and for detailed anatomy review.
5D scan
Real-time, lifelike rendering with natural skin tone and lighting. Best done between 26–32 weeks, when facial features are well formed.
A 5D scan is a keepsake experience on top of your medical scan, not a replacement for the mid-trimester anomaly scan at 20–22 weeks.
4. NIPT and Down syndrome screening
NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing), sometimes called NICC, is a maternal blood test from 10 weeks. It screens for Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards (T18), Patau (T13) and sex chromosome conditions with over 99% sensitivity for the common trisomies.
- Just a blood draw from mum — no needle near baby.
- Results typically in 7–10 working days.
- Recommended for all pregnancies, especially maternal age 35+, previous affected pregnancy, or abnormal first-trimester scan.
- Combined with an 11–13 week nuchal translucency scan for the most complete picture.
5. High-risk pregnancy care
Some pregnancies need closer monitoring — for example gestational diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disease, previous caesarean, twin pregnancy, or a scan finding that needs a second opinion. We manage these in-clinic, and our visiting Maternal Fetal Medicine consultant Dr Kaliammah M. Kuppannan is available by appointment for detailed fetal assessment and counselling.
6. How to prepare for your visit
- Wear a two-piece outfit for easy abdominal access during the scan.
- You don't need a full bladder after the first trimester — come comfortable.
- Bring your IC/passport, any previous scan reports, and your medication list.
- Singapore patients: we're a 10–15 minute drive from Tuas Second Link — ample parking on-site.
- WhatsApp us at +6017-7688177 to check same-day availability.
7. Frequently asked questions
When should I book my first antenatal visit?
Between 6 and 10 weeks from your last period. Earlier is helpful if you have pain, bleeding, or a history of ectopic or miscarriage.
Is a 5D scan safe for baby?
Yes. It uses the same low-power ultrasound as a standard 2D scan — the difference is in how the image is processed, not in the energy delivered.
Can I see a female doctor for every visit?
Yes — all consultations at Dr Wen Clinic are conducted by female doctors.
Do you deliver babies at the clinic?
We provide antenatal care and scans. When you're ready for delivery, we coordinate referral to your preferred hospital and obstetrician in Johor Bahru or Singapore.
Ready to book your antenatal visit?
Same-day appointments are usually available. WhatsApp is the fastest way to reach us.